Abrasive Cleaners

Abrasive Cleaning │Restore Old Cast Iron Pipes

Many homes built prior to 1970 have cast iron pipes that are vulnerable to rust and corrosion over time. Abrasive Cleaning is the preferred method of restoring old corroded cast iron pipes back to their original diameter without stressing the fragile cast pipes as other methods do which could cause fractures and possible eliminate the option of epoxy pipe lining restoration. Cleaning pipes isn’t a solution in and of itself. It is the first step in the pipe lining process.

Why You Might Need to Restore Your Old Cast Iron Pipes

Most conservative estimates on how long cast iron sewer pipes last fall between 40 and 75 years. That might seem like a long span, but it also puts a lot of older houses into the “needs repair” category. When the houses with cast iron pipes were built, plastic wasn’t available. Cast iron was the most durable material offered at the time. But even the most durable materials have a lifespan.

Once rust and corrosion occur, the metal develops pinholes and/or other breaks in the structure. Wastewater leaks out while rust and corrosion build-up on the inside of the pipe. This narrows the passageway for the wastewater, leading to backups and, potentially, a total system failure.

How Abrasive Cleaning Works

Abrasive cleaning is the only way to safely remove the build-up of corrosion and rust inside the pipe. While this restores the pipe to its original diameter, it doesn’t address the damage to the pipe’s surface. Holes in the pipe allow wastewater to escape into the environment.

During abrasive cleaning, technicians use a propelled abrasive brush at high speed to remove the build-up from the interior of the pipe.

This process is, in effect, sanding the interior of the pipe. After the application, they will view the inside of the pipe with a sewer camera to ensure the surface is completely clean. The cleaning process leaves behind a smooth, even surface. This surface is perfect for applying the pipe lining material. The abrasive cleaning inside the pipe helps restore it to nearly its original diameter. Once the lining has cured, you’ll have a new pipe that is strong, durable, and damage-free!

Contact San Diego Plumbing and Pipelining today for cost-effective solutions for all of your piping needs.